HPV Self Testing
Cervical Screening
HPV Self-Testing: What it is and how it works
Everything you need to know about the new NHS HPV self-test, including who can get one, how to use it and what your results mean.
A new way to check for HPV at home
Cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer. However, we know that some people can find it difficult to attend appointments.
The NHS is now introducing HPV self-testing for some people who have not attended cervical screening after previous invitations. HPV self-testing offers a simple way to check for human papillomavirus (HPV) in the privacy of your own home.
What is HPV?
HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus. Most HPV infections go away on their own and cause no problems. However, some types of HPV are known as high-risk HPV because they can increase the chance of developing cervical cancer.
Finding high-risk HPV early means you can get the right follow-up care and treatment if needed.
Who can get an HPV self-test?
At the moment, HPV self-testing is only being offered to an eligible group of women and people with a cervix aged 30 to 65 who have not attended cervical screening following previous invitations. You cannot request a kit unless you have been invited by the NHS.
If you are eligible, you may receive an invitation through the NHS App, by text message, email or letter.
How does the self-test work?
If you receive an invitation, you can order a free HPV self-test kit. The test is simple to do and can be completed at home or in another private place.
The kit contains a swab, similar to a cotton bud. You gently insert the swab a few centimetres into your vagina to collect a sample. Full instructions are included in the kit.
Once you’ve taken your sample, place it in the packaging provided and send it back to the NHS using the free return envelope.
What happens after I send my sample back?
Your sample will be tested for high-risk HPV. If no high-risk HPV is found, you will receive your result.
If high-risk HPV is found, it does not mean you have cervical cancer. You will be invited to attend a cervical screening appointment where a nurse or doctor can take a sample from your cervix to check for any cell changes. These cell changes can often be treated before they become cancer.
Is HPV self-testing the same as cervical screening?
No. HPV self-testing is different from cervical screening. Cervical screening involves a clinician taking a sample directly from your cervix, which can be checked both for high-risk HPV and for cell changes if HPV is found.
The NHS says there is not yet enough evidence to show that replacing regular cervical screening with HPV self-testing is as effective at preventing cervical cancer. However, for people who have not attended screening, self-testing is considered the next best option.
You can still book cervical screening
Even if you receive an invitation for HPV self-testing, you can still choose to book a cervical screening appointment at any time, including if you were invited months or years ago. Cervical screening remains one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer.
Find out more
For more information about cervical screening, visit our main Cervical Screening page. Information about ordering and completing the HPV self-test will be provided if you receive an NHS invitation.
